Uganda’s tourism industry is poised for a transformational leap after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja pledged to personally deliver ambitious sector reforms to President Museveni, following a breakthrough retreat that could unlock the Pearl of Africa’s $50 billion tourism potential by 2040.
At the conclusion of the 6th Bi-Annual Private Sector CEO Retreat in Fort Portal, tourism leaders celebrated concrete government commitments that address years of industry frustrations, from crumbling roads to punitive taxation that has stifled growth in one of Uganda’s most promising economic sectors.
The retreat delivered immediate results, with Prime Minister Nabbanja announcing game-changing aviation developments that could revolutionize tourist access to Uganda’s pristine wilderness areas. A Chinese investor has committed to transforming Kasese Airport into a full international facility, while another partner is set to upgrade Mbarara Airport to international status.
“This changes everything for us,” said tour operator Byamukama Boniface.
“International airports in Kasese and Mbarara mean tourists can fly directly to our mountain gorillas and Queen Elizabeth National Park without the grueling road journey from Entebbe.”
The government has also released Shs 50 billion to fast-track the stalled Mubende-Kyenjojo road project, deploying in-house engineers to ensure the critical tourism artery remains motorable while major upgrades proceed.
The sector’s optimism builds on impressive 2024 performance figures revealed by Tourism Minister Tom Butime, including 7.7% growth in tourist arrivals, 810,000 jobs created across the tourism value chain, and record domestic visitation as Ugandans rediscover their own country.
The sector has also seen robust growth in eco-tourism, cultural tourism, adventure travel, and MICE events.
“We’re not just talking about potential anymore – we’re seeing real results,” Butime emphasized, crediting improved peace and security alongside strategic infrastructure investments for the tourism rebound.
The retreat’s six key resolutions provide a clear roadmap for achieving Uganda’s ambitious Vision 2040 tourism targets.
These include accelerated road infrastructure with safe traveler stopovers, expanded air connectivity positioning Uganda Airlines for international routes, Lake Victoria circuit development with reliable utilities, streamlined taxation replacing 26 burdensome taxes with investor-friendly alternatives, strategic media campaigns to counter negative international advisories, and stronger regulatory frameworks supporting digital tourism promotion.
Industry leaders didn’t mince words about the sector’s transformational potential. Forum chair Emmanuel Katongole noted that tourism has evolved far beyond leisure travel.
“This is now Uganda’s frontline for investment attraction, diplomatic engagement, and job creation. We simply cannot afford delays,” he said.
The retreat featured innovative proposals including a tourism training school in Fort Portal to serve four protected areas, opening Karamoja’s forest reserves for sustainable investment, and integrating the creative economy fully under tourism ministry oversight.
In a move that signals government’s serious commitment to tourism reform, Prime Minister Nabbanja promised to hand-deliver each resolution personally to President Museveni following Monday’s Cabinet meeting.
This direct channel to the highest levels of government has energized an industry long frustrated by bureaucratic delays.
One CEO captured the sector’s mood: “We finally have government’s attention at the highest level. With these commitments and our natural assets – the gorillas, the Nile, the wildlife, the culture reaching that $50 billion target isn’t just possible, it’s inevitable.”
The retreat’s success represents a potential turning point for Uganda’s tourism ambitions, with industry and government finally aligned on the urgent reforms needed to unlock the Pearl of Africa’s extraordinary tourism potential.